50 Years of Fighting Against Smoking: "Non-Smoking Pope" Wants Outdoor Ban
The federal leader of the "Protection Association for Non-Smokers", Robert Rockenbauer, is calling for significantly stricter measures on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of his organization. Austria needs outdoor smoking bans - for example, "at bus stops, lawns and swimming pools, parks and playgrounds, but especially in outdoor dining areas," Rockenbauer said in an APA interview. Additionally, there must be restrictions on e-cigarettes, as they particularly entice young people to smoke.
Austria Needs to Catch Up: Rockenbauer for Outdoor Smoking Ban
Despite the enforced smoking bans in numerous indoor areas, Austria still has "massive catching up to do" in international comparison, emphasized the Tyrolean often referred to as the "Non-Smoker Pope." "Other countries like England or New Zealand are already much further ahead," Rockenbauer highlighted. Therefore, there must also be outdoor smoking bans - everywhere people meet. Smoking should also be completely prohibited in sports stadiums.
Furthermore, Rockenbauer advocated for significantly higher tobacco prices, the abolition of cigarette vending machines, and indeed stricter regulations for e-cigarettes: "No more flavorings, sales exclusively through tobacconists," was the demand of the non-smoker protector regarding the latter.
Commitment Against Smoking Since 1975
His commitment against smoking began in March 1975 - initially in self-service restaurants, where Rockenbauer successfully established the first non-smoking tables. Just a year later, he organized the first "Ball Without Smoke" in Innsbruck - an event that took place annually for over 15 years.
Smoking bans in the workplace and in the hospitality industry were long among Rockenbauer's primary goals. However, according to his own statements, his path was anything but easy: "Lawsuits by cigarette companies, public hostility, and political hurdles accompanied my commitment for decades." Nevertheless, he was able to record numerous interim victories - such as the introduction of the absolute smoking ban in the hospitality industry in November 2019. He described this as a "late but significant success."
He is particularly proud of his educational work in schools: Over 30,000 students have been reached - through more than 300 lectures. At the same time, Rockenbauer recalled numerous, lively media debates with prominent dissenters, such as with the then Austria Tobacco General Director and long-time ÖFB President Beppo Mauhart.
Lack of Funding: Future of the Organization Uncertain
However, according to Rockenbauer, the future of his organization remains uncertain. With the loss of public funding, its continued existence is at stake. "No one wants to work 1,300 hours voluntarily a year anymore," Rockenbauer said thoughtfully. Nevertheless, he wants to continue advocating for non-smoker protection - "as long as possible."
In any case, the 50th anniversary of the "Protection Association for Non-Smokers" will be celebrated on May 10 at the Alphotel Innsbruck. "Interested parties are warmly invited to review the beginnings, highlights, and resistances in a quick overview. Registration is required at: nichtraucherschutz@aon.at," explained the host.
(APA/Red)
This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.